Weather forecasters are confident that Leicestershire will escape the devastation of 80mph winds predicted for a large swathe of the country as the remnants of Hurricane Ophelia head for the British Isles.

The Met Office has issued a warning of potential “danger to life” as the storm rolls in from the Atlantic.

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Winds are expected to strengthen throughout the day with some "strong and blustery" winds expected overnight.

No weather warning has been issued for the region, unlike the 'amber' warning in place for Northern Ireland and north west Wales, and "yellow" issued for parts of Wales, Cornwall, the north of England and Scotland.

The remnants of Hurricane Ophelia could bring widespread damage and disruption to parts of Ireland and the UK (Image: PA)

An amber warning is issued when the Met Office believes there is a "potential risk to life and property" from strong winds - alongside the threat of flooding, downed power lines, damage to buildings and severe disruption to rail, road and ferry services.

Forecasters are warning of flying debris, such as tiles blown from roofs, as well as large waves around coastal districts with beach material being thrown on to coastal roads, sea fronts and properties.

Met Office forecaster Luke Miall said that while storms with these wind speeds tend to happen at this time of year, the one on its way is "quite a substantial system", adding that he would describe it as "pretty exceptional".

(Image: Met Office)

Mr Miall said Ophelia will have gone through a transition on its way across the Atlantic but will still bring "hurricane-force" winds.

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar tweeted: "Defence forces being deployed in Red weather alert areas and on standby for further action.

"Please check in with older neighbours and those who need medical care."